Abstract: A system is provided in which messages and promotions are linked together in an interactive television system. The messages may be electronic mail messages. When the system displays a message, it displays the associated promotion on the same screen. The television viewer may select the promotion to see more details and to order the product or program advertised or to perform other actions related to the product or program. The system may also include a program guide and allow promotions to be linked to program guide data, in which case the system may allow the television viewer to access program guide features by selecting the promotion.